Pets are among the most pleasant creatures on earth, but living with them is never easy. Keeping a house clean can be quite an uphill battle. Endless muddy paw marks and furballs seem to spring up from almost nowhere.
Due to this, many owners have employed the use of antimicrobial coatings as an effective solution.
If you are considering using them, but are afraid that this could affect your pet in some way, we will help you shed your fears. Here’s all you need to know before using them.
What Are Antimicrobial Coatings?
They are usually derived from copper, zinc, or silver. These substances are developed to stop the spread of hazardous microorganisms.
The natural antibacterial properties of these heavy metals significantly slow down the development of viruses, mould, and germs.
Some coatings are made of chemical materials, such as quaternary ammonium salts, that also act as potent disinfectants. While they are safe for human consumption when used sensibly, things get more complicated when pets are involved.
In any case, all varieties of these treatments either stop or hinder the spread of dangerous bacteria by preventing their reproduction.
They are great for sanitising frequently used surfaces, including doorknobs and countertops. Antimicrobial coatings can also benefit air filters and furniture textiles.
The layer of protection they provide helps maintain optimal hygienic standards for extended periods without continuous cleaning.
That sounds amazing, right? Before you get overly excited, let us take a closer look at the possible hazards involved with these coatings.
Are These Materials Harmful to Pets?
Antibacterial coatings are not always risk-free, particularly for animals that chew, lick, and sniff everything in sight.
The kind of coating and application technique you employ mostly determine whether or not these surface treatments will harm your four-legged friend.
When applied in low doses, metal-based coatings are generally regarded as safe for both people and animals. However, dogs and cats in particular tend to be more sensitive to certain cleaning products.
Pets often lick random surfaces and then groom themselves. Consequently, because these treatments are applied to the surfaces that one normally touches or leans on, the possibility of an adverse reaction is increased.
Pets can have gastrointestinal problems if they ingest such substances or are exposed to them directly.
Even though copper and silver are relatively less toxic, prolonged or excessive exposure to either can cause serious health problems.
Some common complications that occur in pets include kidney and liver diseases.
Chemical-based antibacterial agents can pose certain risks to your animal companion. An example is the quaternary ammonium compounds, which can irritate their respiratory system and skin.
Breeds that are prone to respiratory complications, such as pugs and bulldogs, suffer the most from chronic exposure to these chemicals.
How to Safely Use Antimicrobial Coatings Around Pets
If you’re concerned about your furry friend’s well-being, there are plenty of ways to achieve a perfect blend of safety and cleanliness.
Choose Pet-safe Coatings
Look for the ones especially labelled as pet-friendly. You will find many effective alternatives that have little to no harmful toxins that could endanger pets.
Using these around your house will keep you from panicking any time your dog starts licking the floor.
Minimise Their Use in High-Touch Areas
Focus on the areas that are not easily accessible to your pets rather than wiping down every surface with antibacterial treatments.
Avoid their sleeping or play areas. Instead, use them on things like door handles, light switches, and countertops.
Keep Track of Your Pet’s Behaviour
Closely observe your pet after applying antimicrobial products. If they are licking or scratching more than they normally do, particularly around recently sanitised surfaces, it is not a good sign.
You need to review the product’s ingredients and recommended applications before using it in order to avoid this scenario.
Clean Constantly
Keeping a consistent cleaning schedule is crucial, even with antimicrobial coatings. These surface treatments stop the spread of bacteria, but they do not remove allergens, dirt, or dust.
It is a good idea to hire a cleaning service provider that uses pet-safe products. They will keep your house tidy and comfortable without endangering your furry companion’s health.
Ensure Appropriate Application and Ventilation
Always apply antibacterial coatings in well-ventilated locations, and closely follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Improper use, either by over-application or failure to let surfaces dry sufficiently, increases your pet’s risk of adversely reacting to the chemical components.
When Should You Avoid Antimicrobial Coatings?
In some cases, it would be wise to avoid antimicrobial treatments altogether. Old age, chronic diseases, or certain medications could make pets more vulnerable to some antimicrobial chemical products.
Your regular cleaning techniques are the better option if your furbaby has a compromised immune system or suffers from allergies or asthma.
Non-toxic, natural substances like vinegar and baking soda are excellent, pet-friendly substitutes.
Nonetheless, despite being a safe choice for both people and animals, these domestic cleaners lack the long-lasting protection of antimicrobial coatings.
This is another instance where a reliable cleaning service provider can help. Many companies now provide green or environmentally friendly services that utilise safe, non-toxic solutions for pets.
Why You Should Consult a Veterinarian
Make sure you talk to your veterinarian before using any new cleaning products around your furry friends to avoid possible complications altogether.
They can offer expert recommendations since they know your pet’s medical history. They can also highlight any particular needs or underlying medical issues that could increase their sensitivity to certain substances.
Veterinarians are also trained to recognise dangerous components in various products and can direct you towards better substitutes.
Conclusion
Particularly in a pet-friendly household, maintaining a clean, germ-free environment is absolutely vital.
Although antimicrobial coatings are effective in sanitising surfaces, you must use them carefully around your pet.
So, take the time to read up on their different components, their recommended usage instructions, and their possible effects.
With the right information and some consideration, you will be able to keep your home spick and span without compromising your furry companion’s health.
FAQs
Generally, antimicrobial coatings can be safe for pets, especially if they are applied correctly and made from pet-friendly materials. However, some coatings can pose risks if ingested or if pets are exposed to them for prolonged periods. It’s wise to choose products specifically labeled as pet-safe and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Look for antimicrobial coatings that are specifically labeled as pet-friendly. Many alternatives contain little to no harmful toxins, making them safer for your furry friends. Avoid chemical-based agents like quaternary ammonium compounds, which can irritate pets.
To minimize risks, apply coatings in areas that are not easily accessible to your pets, such as door handles and countertops. Avoid using them in your pet’s sleeping or play areas. Always monitor your pet’s behavior after application to catch any adverse reactions early.
If you notice your pet licking or scratching more than usual, especially around recently treated surfaces, it may indicate an irritation or allergic reaction. Check the product’s ingredients and consult your veterinarian for advice on whether to continue using the product.
Yes, non-toxic, natural substances like vinegar and baking soda are great pet-friendly alternatives for cleaning. While they don’t offer the long-lasting protection of antimicrobial coatings, they are safe for your pets and effective at cleaning.
Consulting your veterinarian is important as they can provide expert recommendations based on your pet’s medical history. They can help identify any specific sensitivities or underlying health issues that may make your pet more vulnerable to certain chemical products.
Perla Irish, who is more familiarly known as Irish, is the Content Manager at newfld.com. She loves following trends around home and garden, interior design and digital marketing. Through this blog, Irish wants to share information and help readers solve the problems they are experiencing.